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Cate Blanchett stunned fashion watchers with a bold outfit at the Chelsea Flower Show preview this week. Known for its floral prints, pastel dresses, and dainty hats, the show has long followed an unofficial dress code. But Blanchett had something entirely different in mind—and it worked beautifully.
A Stylish Twist on Garden Glam
Ditching tradition, Blanchett arrived in a tailored steel-grey blazer, a soft pale blue shirt, and loose brown trousers. Her outfit leaned more toward power dressing than countryside chic. Yet, it captured attention effortlessly and was surprisingly in line with upcoming fashion trends.
While her look didn’t whisper “English rose,” it shouted modern elegance. Think city boardroom meets autumn runway—with a strong dash of Cate’s unique flair.
Fashion Forward with a Purpose
Blanchett is no stranger to designer powerhouses. She’s frequently seen in luxury labels like Alexander McQueen, Giorgio Armani, and Louis Vuitton. Recently, she wore a striking pink suit on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, designed by Haider Ackermann. The lime green blouse she paired it with added a bold contrast—pure style genius.
Ackermann, now creative director at Tom Ford, seems to be inspiring Blanchett’s latest style choices. And it’s no coincidence. His upcoming Autumn collection for Tom Ford features sharp, steel-grey suits—almost identical to the one Blanchett wore to Chelsea.
Autumn Trend Alert: The Steel-Grey Blazer
Steel-grey tailoring is shaping up to be a major autumn-winter trend. Cate’s look isn’t just a fashion statement—it’s a sneak peek at what’s coming. Expect structured blazers, soft blues, and earthy browns to dominate shelves by September.
This modern mix of sleek tailoring and relaxed styling is catching on fast. Blanchett’s Chelsea outfit proves you can be both polished and effortless.
Get Cate’s Look Without Breaking the Bank
Here’s the best part—you don’t need a designer budget to recreate Cate’s outfit. The exact style of blazer she wore can be found in Uniqlo’s new Uniqlo: C collection. Designed by Clare Waight Keller (formerly of Givenchy and Chloé), the collection blends elegance with everyday wear.
The steel-grey blazer from the collection, made in a lightweight, breathable fabric, usually retails for £69.90. But this week, it’s available on the Uniqlo website for just £29.90.
Yes, you read that right.
A-List Fashion at High-Street Prices
Blanchett’s look proves that fashion-forward doesn’t have to mean high-cost. With this Uniqlo piece, you can channel red carpet style for under £30. It’s versatile, timeless, and a perfect transitional piece for your wardrobe.
Pair it with soft shirts, earthy trousers, or even jeans—it’s a blazer that works hard while looking sleek.
Fashion with Flair and Freedom
Cate Blanchett’s Chelsea appearance wasn’t just about clothes—it was about confidence. By breaking away from traditional expectations, she reminded everyone that fashion should express personality, not follow rules.
And thanks to affordable fashion collections like Uniqlo: C, that kind of bold elegance is now within reach.
So, if you're looking to refresh your style with a modern, high-fashion twist—start with a steel-grey blazer. Cate’s already wearing it, the runway’s predicting it, and for £29.90, you really can’t go wrong.